Re: Jesús Manuel Grijalva Mejia, Human Rights Lawyer; Gilberto Hernández Santiago, Human Rights Lawyer; Alma Gómez Soto, Human Rights Defender
To: Lic. Juan Camilo Mouriño Terrazo, Lic. Ulises Ruiz Orits, Lic. Evenico Nicolás Martínez Ramírez
From: Lainie K. Shore
Date: 2008-02-26
I am writing, as a member of LRWC, in response to information received from Amnesty International Canada indicating that the lives of human rights lawyers Jesús Manuel Grijavala Mejia’s and Gilbert Hernández Santiago’s are being threatened and that Alma Gómez Soto, a human rights defender is being harassed. LRWC believes all their lives may be in danger as a result of their human rights work in Oaxaca.
We ask that Mexico act and proceed in accordance with their legal commitments to adhere to international law as established by Mexico’s treaty obligations under the American Convention on Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as other instruments.
LRWC is aware that Article 133 of the Mexican Constitution provides that the international treaties ratified by Mexico prevail as the supreme law in the country.
LRWC respectfully urges the Governments of Mexico and Oaxaca ensure that Jesús Manuel Grijalva, Gilberto Hernández Santiago and Alma Gomez, as well as other members of the Comité de Liberación 25 de Noviembre receive effective protection, in accordance with their wishes and in line with the 2007 ruling of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
LRWC also calls for a thorough and independent investigation into the written death threat received by Jesús Manuel Grijalva and Gilberto Hernández Santiagono on February 22, 2008, for the results to be made public and for those responsible to be brought to justice. LRWC also calls upon the Government of Mexico to investigate the harassment suffered by Alma Gómez Soto on February 24, 2008 and for those responsible to be brought to justice.
As the Government of Mexico is aware, human rights defenders have a right to carry out their activities without restrictions or fear of reprisals as set out in the UN Declaration on the Right and Responsibility of Individuals, Groups and Organs of Society to Promote and Protect Universally Recognized Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.
LRWC would appreciate it if you would please provide your written response advising that a proper investigation into the threats against these human rights defenders has been initiated and that the Government has taken the necessary steps to protect Jesús Manuel Grijalva, Gilberto Hernández Santiago and Alma Gomez.
We look forward to hearing from you shortly and thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
